It turns out that HomePod isn’t the only fancy speaker that can stain wooden tables.
One Sonos user has discovered the same problem caused by a Sonos One. Just like HomePod, it has silicone on its base to prevent slipping.
After being blown away by its sound quality, some HomePod owners were disappointed with their $349 purchase after discovering this week that it can damage table surfaces. Its silicone base leaves white marks on oil-stained wood.
Sonos has the same problem
Apple quickly confirmed this could be an issue for some users. The company insists “it is not unusual,” and suggests that the marks “will often go away after several days” when the speaker is removed. It recommends placing your HomePod on a different surface if you’re concerned.
HomePod isn’t the only speaker that causes this problem, however. Tom’s Guide reviewer Mike Prospero noticed his Sonos One was also leaving white marks on his cabinet as he investigated the damage caused by HomePod.
“When I got home, I saw a large white ring, a telltale indication that the HomePod’s silicone base had messed up the finish,” Prospero writes. “But, as I was inspecting the damage, I noticed a series of smaller white marks near where the HomePod was sitting.”
“A closer inspection revealed that the Sonos One speaker, which also has small silicone feet, had made these marks on my cabinet.”
Silicone is great at dampening vibration, which is why it is often found on speaker bases. It’s a shame that it can damage oil-stained wood — and that Apple didn’t warn HomePod buyers before or after they made their purchase.
You shouldn’t let this put you off HomePod, however, because it’s well worth its price tag. If you really have to put yours down on wood, just place something underneath it to prevent this problem.
